San Francisco sent fullback Wilbur Jackson to Washington for…
San Francisco sent fullback Wilbur Jackson to Washington for second-round picks in 1981 and 1982. The first became John Harty; the second was later packaged with another choice to acquire the pick used on Bubba Paris. Jackson immediately produced more than 1,100 yards from scrimmage for Washington in 1980, but San Francisco's two premium selections created the stronger long-term asset value.
San Francisco 49ers Received
- pick 1981 second round pick (#36-John Harty)
- pick 1982 second round pick (#41-Andre Tippett; later traded with #55- Darryl Haley to New England for #29-Bubba Paris)
Washington Commanders Received
- player Wilbur Jackson
Trade Analysis
The Exchange
On August 23, 1980, San Francisco traded fullback Wilbur Jackson to Washington for the Redskins' second-round choices in both 1981 and 1982. The 1981 selection became No. 36 John Harty. San Francisco later moved the 1982 second-round choice, No. 41, together with No. 55 in a trade that brought back No. 29, which the 49ers used on offensive tackle Bubba Paris.
San Francisco 49ers Return
Two second-round picks represented substantial value for a veteran running back. Harty gave San Francisco one direct player from the exchange, while the second selection retained enough value to become part of another first-round move. Paris ultimately became a long-term starter on championship teams, although his acquisition also required another second-round pick. The original Washington choice therefore contributed meaningfully to a larger roster-building chain.
Washington Commanders Return
Jackson gave Washington an immediate payoff. In 1980 he combined rushing and receiving production for more than 1,100 yards from scrimmage, providing a versatile veteran presence in the backfield. He remained with Washington through the 1982 championship season. That makes the deal much stronger for Washington than a typical veteran acquisition that delivers only a brief cameo.
Value in Hindsight
Washington received useful football value and can reasonably defend the price. San Francisco, however, obtained two premium selections and preserved substantial flexibility. One became a player directly and the other helped support a move for a long-term offensive tackle. That total asset value creates the edge.
Final Verdict
San Francisco 49ers Win. The 49ers earn an A- for extracting two second-round choices and turning them into meaningful roster value. Washington gets a B because Jackson contributed immediately and remained part of a championship-era roster, making this a good acquisition even in a losing verdict.